Underwhelming

[Spuhns]

Drove nicer than I thought it would ... can't understand the people who are complaining about wind noise or wind pull. They have not driven any 'lifted vehicles' apparently, or even a stock 80 series for that matter!!!

Overall, the vehicle is underwhelming and will be a flash in the pan, IMO. I really wanted to like it, guess I had high hopes.

I would have much rather seen the Prado released in the US, than the underwhelming FJCruiser ... Maybe not as 'cool' looking, but definately one of the best all around offroaders/DD's made!

[MudBludd]

Originally Posted by Spuhns

Drove nicer than I thought it would ... can't understand the people who are complaining about wind noise or wind pull. They have not driven any 'lifted vehicles' apparently, or even a stock 80 series for that matter!!!

Overall, the vehicle is underwhelming and will be a flash in the pan, IMO. I really wanted to like it, guess I had high hopes.

I would have much rather seen the Prado released in the US, than the underwhelming FJCruiser ... Maybe not as 'cool' looking, but definately one of the best all around offroaders/DD's made!

wait..it was nicer than you thought...can't see why people complain...yaddah yaddah...but it is'underwhelming' and will be a flash in the pan....nicer than you thought YET didn't reach expectations...doesn't make sense

[Spuhns]

I didn't go through all the characteristics of what was poor about it, they have been beaten to death. I was disagreeing with the wind noise and wind pull, as that is the case with any roof rack and any large surface area vehicle.

I gave it props for the one great thing it did ... it drove well (meaning the road comfort was good in city and highway driving - as opposed to say a Jeep). This was a surprising aspect to me, however did not outweigh the 'overall underwhelming' impression it left me.

Have you ever driven a LandCruiser? The 'feel' of this FJC does not compare. It separates you from your environment too much. This is a great feature when sitting in an airplane, but not when I am driving in the mountains!

The post was more intended to drive demand for a TRUE LandCruiser-lite vehicle ... such as the Prado.

[MudBludd]

Originally Posted by Spuhns

I didn't go through all the characteristics of what was poor about it, they have been beaten to death. I was disagreeing with the wind noise and wind pull, as that is the case with any roof rack and any large surface area vehicle.

I gave it props for the one great thing it did ... it drove well (meaning the road comfort was good in city and highway driving - as opposed to say a Jeep). This was a surprising aspect to me, however did not outweigh the 'overall underwhelming' impression it left me.

Have you ever driven a LandCruiser? The 'feel' of this FJC does not compare. It separates you from your environment too much. This is a great feature when sitting in an airplane, but not when I am driving in the mountains!

The post was more intended to drive demand for a TRUE LandCruiser-lite vehicle ... such as the Prado.

Gotcha...I would love to see a Prado as well in the states..but Gawd only knows how much they'd change it for the American Market

[SurfPonto]

Originally Posted by Spuhns

I would have much rather seen the Prado released in the US, than the underwhelming FJCruiser ... Maybe not as 'cool' looking, but definately one of the best all around offroaders/DD's made!

A Prado is much closer to a 4-Runner and or a Lexus GX-470 than a true LandCruiser. IMO.

True they are available with turbo-diesel engines overseas but I believe the drivetrain is similar to the 4-Runner and the gX470 as well as the FJ Cruiser.

Bob
1977 FJ40 "MuMu"
1992 FJ80 "Tubbs"

[Spuhns]

I know the GX is a Prado ... pimped out, air suspension, and throw in the V8. All you have to do is look at side by side pics of the two, exact same.

I am really curious to know more about the relationship of the 4Runner to the Prado platform. Is it the exact frame, same center, SAME suspension? I believe the Prado has a coil over front independent, not torsion bar. Is this true with the Runner?

[uhoh7]

Originally Posted by Spuhns

Drove nicer than I thought it would ... can't understand the people who are complaining about wind noise or wind pull. They have not driven any 'lifted vehicles' apparently, or even a stock 80 series for that matter!!!

Overall, the vehicle is underwhelming and will be a flash in the pan, IMO. I really wanted to like it, guess I had high hopes.

I would have much rather seen the Prado released in the US, than the underwhelming FJCruiser ... Maybe not as 'cool' looking, but definately one of the best all around offroaders/DD's made!

well I can tell you that you are an exception. I don't know what you expect.....I think it's just another "I wouldn't have one (cause I don't have it together to get one anyway)"

Flash in the pan? Right. Call us back in ten years and tell us it was just a flash. I have guys with every kind of 4WD, many LCs of all descriptions pulling me over, catching me parked, they all love the thing.

Oh yeah the PRADO--that's what we need.

The FJC is a great rig---what other 06/07 would you take?

[MudBludd]

"The FJC is a great rig---what other 06/07 would you take?[/quote]



kia sportage of course duh

[BJ-44]

the 90 series prados can use the same supension lift as a 1996 and up 4 runner

[FJCruiserOwnersGroup]

Originally Posted by Spuhns

The post was more intended to drive demand for a TRUE LandCruiser-lite vehicle ... such as the Prado.

Personally, I feel that the FJC is a great rig. It's got legs, and will probably be around for quite awhile.

[SunFuCru]

Coming frm a 2000 Tundra V8 auto, I drove a FJ 4x4 auto. I was VERY impressed with the ride and the power. (wait til TRD releases a supercharger for it) Way nicer than the Tundra. The looks are second to none IMHO, the quality is a given, the interior is very sensibly configured. PLENTY of headroom and very customizable seating arrangement with all of the adjustments.

Yes, the windows are 'gun slits' but they suit the truck. Rear visibility is challenging but not impossible. Everything feels solid and reliable. Little touches like triple windshield wipers, rear lift glass, rear gas strut to hold open and damp the large rear door, rubber flooring (with available rubber OR carpet mats), 110 Volt outlets (yes, 3-prong like you find at home), large manageable controls that make sense, and on and on. I looked for defects and about the only disappointing element was the plastic front bumper cover. Looks good but metal would have been better.

With this truck, the more you look, the more you are impressed. It has a presence all its own and can back it all up. I dont think ANY other vehicle in this class can say the same. This truck is a grand slam home run and will be a popular vehicle for years to come.

[warpedone]

Originally Posted by BEN1272

Coming frm a 2000 Tundra V8 auto, I drove a FJ 4x4 auto. I was VERY impressed with the ride and the power. (wait til TRD releases a supercharger for it) Way nicer than the Tundra. The looks are second to none IMHO, the quality is a given, the interior is very sensibly configured. PLENTY of headroom and very customizable seating arrangement with all of the adjustments.

Yes, the windows are 'gun slits' but they suit the truck. Rear visibility is challenging but not impossible. Everything feels solid and reliable. Little touches like triple windshield wipers, rear lift glass, rear gas strut to hold open and damp the large rear door, rubber flooring (with available rubber OR carpet mats), 110 Volt outlets (yes, 3-prong like you find at home), large manageable controls that make sense, and on and on. I looked for defects and about the only disappointing element was the plastic front bumper cover. Looks good but metal would have been better.

With this truck, the more you look, the more you are impressed. It has a presence all its own and can back it all up. I dont think ANY other vehicle in this class can say the same. This truck is a grand slam home run and will be a popular vehicle for years to come.

I agree, That is why I will be trading my Rubicon for a 2008 FJC.

[TisilverFJ]

I agree with you BEN1272.

MY wife got her 2006 4runner first. I loved driving it so much that I wanted one too. I knew the FJ was due out soon. I lucked out and got one of the first one's coming into our dealership in Denver. If you drove both blindfolded you wouldn't know wich one was wich. Traded in my '01 tacoma D-cab and couldn't be happier.

[Cali_FJC]

whatever gets you off - get whatever rig suits you. i dig the fj for the modern convenience and it's offroad abilities. im looking forward to all the mods that will be slapped on this thing and learning from others ingenuity. who the hell cares prado - 4runner - fj40 - gremlin. i tell you, it's kind of annoying to read through thread after thread on multiple forums about dudes getting all grumpy that the fjc isnt this or that (of course i cant help but read them cuz im stewpit). i can accept the criticism - i dont really care if you like it or not - i do. im smart, im attractive and gosh darnit, people like me.

[FJCruiserOwnersGroup]

Originally Posted by Cali_FJC

whatever gets you off - get whatever rig suits you. i dig the fj for the modern convenience and it's offroad abilities. im looking forward to all the mods that will be slapped on this thing and learning from others ingenuity. who the hell cares prado - 4runner - fj40 - gremlin. i tell you, it's kind of annoying to read through thread after thread on multiple forums about dudes getting all grumpy that the fjc isnt this or that (of course i cant help but read them cuz im stewpit). i can accept the criticism - i dont really care if you like it or not - i do. im smart, im attractive and gosh darnit, people like me.

As I've said before, Toyota isn't marketing to the tirekickers and naysayers (that's what the concept car is for), they made the FJC for buyers...and, judging by the short time the FJCs are on the lots after they're dropped, Toyota nailed it.

[Corey]

Originally Posted by FJCruiserOwnersGroup

As I've said before, Toyota isn't marketing to the tirekickers and naysayers (that's what the concept car is for), they made the FJC for buyers...and, judging by the short time the FJCs are on the lots after they're dropped, Toyota nailed it.

Very well said.
It does get immature here with the repeated threads by the tire kickers.

[MudBludd]

Originally Posted by warpedone

I agree, That is why I will be trading my Rubicon for a 2008 FJC.

if you drove both blindfolded you'd prolly have to buy both since you'd probably wreck the dern things

[TEPUI]

Originally Posted by Spuhns

I believe the Prado has a coil over front independent, not torsion bar. Is this true with the Runner?

Yes it is true. The 90 series shares the 3rd gen 96-02 4runner platfrom and the 120 series the 4th gen (current) runner platform.

Originally Posted by BJ-44

the 90 series prados can use the same supension lift as a 1996 and up 4 runner

In fact the Old Man Emu suspension was designed FOR the Prado and brought to the US for 4Runners and Tacos (front). I just installed the OME setup this week on my SWB 90 series 1997 Prado and it feels great so far.

[Romer]

Well, I could start a post that said

I wouldn't get one . . . . right now because I want to replace the bumper on my 77FJ40 to something more stout, and I need to install a dual battery setup in my 97 80 series (LX450) and looking at rear bumpers for my (daughterofromers) lifted 99 4runner. After that, I am going to see if I can get my wife to trade her GMC in on an FJ. Only problem with that is she has a problem with blind spots. She once hit a pole in an empty parking lot at 15MPH in the daytime straight in the middle of the hood, and said it was in a blind spot.

So essentially, I am going to wait a year and see if they do anything about the blind spot. If not, by then they should have lots of armor available.

I like the Fj's and have wheeled with the FJ Cruiser team and am impressed!

[Spuhns]

Honestly, I was fully prepared to sell my FZJ80 to buy the FJC. I was very excited a new 'cruizer' was coming out and loved the 'look'. I drove my wife nutz for the last month before the release, my jeep friends were sick of me talking this thing up! I drove the first silver FJC that reached my delearship and put the first 12 miles on it.

After test driving, I got back into my FZJ80 and instantly realized how much more I liked the 'feel' of the 80 than the FJ. As I was driving off, another guy test driving a FJC at the dealership stopped me and asked me if I would consider selling the 80. Said he didn't like overall 'feel' of the FJC either. He was underwhelmed by it.

[Romer]

Spuhns - Your opinion is welcome. There have been a few non toyota guys coming in here bashing the FJcruiser and how it compares to a ......Jeep.

I have no problem with an 80 owner saying he drove it and liked the 80 better.

I also have an 80 and was impressed. Different perspectives and opinions are part of life.

edit: I wouldn't trade my 80 in either, but I was thinking of replacing the wifes GMC. It's nothing against the FJ. I just love the 80 and the way it rides and wheels. The FJ Cruiser is great in that area, but it's like trading in one of your kids. I would rather have both.

[DBS311]

I admit that when the FJC was first getting exposed I was bitter and upset with the direction Toyota had gone with it. Then I start looking at more and more pictures of it. Ok, it isn't that bad. Now there are pictures circulating of FJCs with lifts, bumpers, etc. and it is starting to look better and better. I decided that I needed to see one in person when they hit the local dealer.

After 5 miles into the test drive I knew that I'd rather be behind the wheel of my 62. Sure, it's nice, drives ok, has decent power blah, blah, blah.........but it wasn't my cup of tea. If I had absolutely loved it, I would have probably sold the 62 and bought one. Not everyone is going to love the FJC, so deal with it. I know plenty of people that don't like the 60 series but I don't get pissy about it. I appreciate the people that offer their opinion whether it is good or bad. We are all intelligent adults (except Shotts - he even admitted it) and we can tell when people are just trying to bash the FJC rather than offering an honest opinion. My advice, just look past the bad posts. We need the good with the bad.

There are those out there that really want to like it, but feel it doesn't offer enough to warrant selling their current rig to buy one.

[alaskacruiser]

FJCOG- I would hope people on these forums would be open to different opinions. The FJC forum isn't only for people to post about how much they love their FJC's, is it? Toyota people do read this forum, and it is good to get constructive criticism out there. Every vehicle has weak points or can be improved upon, especially the first year they are released.

I haven't driven the FJC yet, but I will test drive it soon. And you can be sure I'll post my honest opinion here. It is illogical to assume that every person that doesn't like the FJC says so because they weren't going to buy it in the first place. This makes no sense! For example- I drove a Mercedes G-Wagon and I loved it, but I'm not buying one because it is too expensive. I knew I wasn't going to buy the G-Wagon when I test drove it, but I still think it is a fantastic vehicle! You need to accept the fact that some people aren't going to like the FJ, and will post honest reasons as to why. Please don't put words in peoples' mouths and make up reasons why they don't like the FJ. News flash: they may have real reasons for not liking it and constructive criticism is a good thing, especially since it has a good chance of making it back to Toyota!

[tnegiet]

Does anyone want to hear why I bought an FJ instead of a Tacoma? Oh wait, I'll go to the Tacoma thread and let them know...

[FineWynsFJ40]

I'll admit, I'm a tire kicker. On both my FJ40 and LeSabre, before I bought them, I kicked the tires. Since they didn't fall off, I bought them

I got to crawl under and over the FJC at the Detroit Auto Show, as well as drive it. Once I'm out of college, once my Buick bites the big one, and I'm comfortably into my first tour of duty with the Coast Guard, I'm going to the local Toyota dealership and gettin' me an order for one FJ Cruiser.

[thorvald]

I'm sure the test drive posts will die down,

and be replaced with should I get a used 100 series or FJ.

I find these threads somewhat informative by the way.
Especially if the person doing the feedback is someone's opinion I've come to respect/value.

It's your chance in your tech section to draw people to the FJC, not away.
Negative qualities people see are an attribute of the vehicle, not the owners of the vehicle. I hope Toyota listens to some of the criticisms as they seem valid, and I would possibly get one in the future if they fix some of the things mentioned, maybe even if they don't.

Most 80's owners dog the 91-92 models for being underpowered and other reasons. all in good fun. the 07-08 model FJ's will probably be the same

[johnny4ever]

First my Qualifications: NONE
Am I planning on buying an 07 FJ...nope.
Have I test driven one? nope

Looks to me like someone may work for toyota.

[SnyderMan]

I too enjoy hearing what honest, objective people have to say about the vehicle. these are what i looked for before test driving myself. this way i was able to concentrate on thing people disliked or liked to see if it affected me the same way. like the blindspot. some people cant get over it. but to me it was nothing and really is only a minor concern when backing up.
also the wind noise on the rack. some do not like it and i can only notice it if i have turned everything off in the vehicle and concentrate on hearing it.

it was nice to have others do some leg work and see if i agreed with their opinions. but i made up my own mind and i will put money down tomorrow on mine!

the great thing is sometimes i miss stuff on a test drive so the more i can find out the more i can look for on my test drive. i dont find negetive opinions negetive at all, unless it comes from some j**p guy that is looking to impress himself by saying he wouldnt buy one cause his jeep is the end all be all. if there is substance in your post i am interested.

[Beowulf]

Originally Posted by thorvald

I'm sure the test drive posts will die down, and be replaced with should I get a used 100 series or FJ.

I find these threads somewhat informative by the way.
Especially if the person doing the feedback is someone's opinion I've come to respect/value.

It's your chance in your tech section to draw people to the FJC, not away.

Thorvald makes some excellent points and I think all of you FJC owners that are frequenting this section should reread them.

1. It is your section of IH8MUD. You can make it whatever you want it to be.
2. You really do NOT want it to be simply a "tech" section. For one, there isn't much "tech" out there right now and you should be solicting ideas from the 4Runner, Taco, 80's, and especially the 100 guys.
3. Whether you like it or not, you will be getting opinions from those here at 'Mud that spend most of our time in other sections. Get used to that fact and find a way to embrace it and our feedback.
4. Use the negative "test drive" posts to educate the poster about the positive attributes of the FJC. Some won't read them but there are dozens (hundreds) of lurkers that are reading your responses. Be professional and courteous with your rebuttals.

The FJC is a very capable and kewl truck. Some will never like it, some will be ambivilant, some will love it, and most will just let the vehicle prove itself. Proving itself is the whole purpose of the FJ Cruiser Trail Teams. I *firmly* believe that most forum members will not be writing those "I hate it..." posts here on 'Mud after they've had a chance to see it off-road and to DRIVE it off-road on some challenging terrain. The following 2 photos are from the High Desert Cruiser event at Gordy's Hill. The FJ Cruiser Trail Teams sent 2 vehicles and we had a great weekend.






A friend of mine took this shot and titled it "The Future." You can decide for yourself if he is prophetic or not.



-B-